§ Sir J. BUTCHERasked the Secretary of State for War whether the Army Council are appointing officers over the age of fifty to the command of Regular battalions, in contravention of the Royal Warrant as to age; and what is the reason for this action?
Captain GUESTIn accordance with Article 522 of the Royal Warrant, majors have during the War been retained on the active list beyond the age of fifty. Majors who have been so retained are, if a vacancy occurs, considered in their turn for promotion to lieutenant-colonel. A lieutenant-colonel is not compulsorily retired under the Royal Warrant until he reaches the age of fifty-five. If my hon. and learned Friend has any specific case to the contrary in mind, and will let me have the particulars, I should be happy to have the matter inquired into.